Manitoba normal School

ManitoBa norMal school class of 1952-1953 reunion

text and photo: eileen sokalski

Members of the Organizing Committee

Left to right: Andy Koshelanyk, Georgina Cuthbert, Al Borys, Bessie-Marie Hill, Cy Nimchuk, Stan Sokalski, Freddie Borys, Wally Stoyko, Eileen Sokalski

Missing in the photos: Joyce Tomchuk, Una Kuran, Joyce Kohut, Lorne Ferley

The Manitoba Normal School class of 1952-1953 celebrated its 58th anniversary on September 12, 13 and 14, 2011. The event was held at Canad Inns (Polo Park) in Winnipeg. About 96 alumnae and guests, from as far away as British Columbia and Montreal, enjoyed reminiscing and renewing friendships during the wonderful three-day event. It featured a wine and cheese reception on Monday evening with great music supplied by the old Normal School orchestra, which we used to dance to in the canteen.

On Tuesday, many people took advantage of a tour to the Aviation Museum; eleven braved the windy weather and golfed. At noon, we toured the old Normal School building and had lunch there. It was fun to walk through those halls again, which brought back many memories. Some toured the Museum of Man and Nature in the afternoon. A banquet and dance was held in the evening, with music by the South Glen Fiddlers, who provided us with great old time, toe-tapping music and even square dances. Many dancers took advantage of the great music. Class photos were taken as a memento of a wonderful event.

Wednesday morning, everyone gathered once again for a delicious brunch. “Open mic” provided many laughs. Entertainment was supplied by a musical group, ' Misbehavin'. A special tribute was given honouring the deceased members. Everyone said their good-byes and hoped to meet again for our 60th reunion.

A survey was taken and the general consensus was for a reunion to be held in two years’ time, which will be our 60th. The next reunion will be held in Gimli, September 9, 10 and 11, 2013.

Al Borys has agreed to maintain and update the data base of contact information. If you know of a change of address or the passing of an alumna, please email Al at alborys@mts.net.